In the first half, the Celtics went to Garnett early and often, but he was unable to knock down shots. Garnett made just two of his nine shots in the opening two quarters.

He missed his first two shots in the third quarter, before sinking four consecutive shots. Garnett's 10-point third quarter briefly gave Boston a lead near the end of the third quarter, but back-to-back turnovers and a great effort from LeBron James stalled the run.

James scored 12 points in the third frame. Miami leads 72-67 heading into the fourth quarter.